The opening of the Open University
Expanding university study through supported distance learning.
- When
- 1969–1971
- Where
- United Kingdom
The Open University combined teaching materials, broadcasting and student support to make higher education available beyond the conventional residential campus. Building its first courses required educational design and a nationwide delivery system.
Background
A different route to study
Adults with work and family responsibilities often could not attend a conventional university full time. Distance learning offered a way to reorganise where and when study took place.[1]
What happened
Impact & evidence
University reached the home
The Open University received its Royal Charter in 1969 and began teaching in 1971. Its distance-learning approach combined materials studied at home with teaching support, making higher education more accessible to people whose work or location prevented conventional attendance. The university records an initial intake of approximately 24,000 students. This was a substantial national undertaking from its first year.[2]
Aftermath & legacy
Broadening participation
The institution made supported distance study a substantial part of higher education. Its history links access to teaching methods, media and support, rather than simply sending books through the post.[1]
Sources & image credits (2)
Author not established in the image record; CC BY-SA 4.0; via Wikimedia Commons. Image source ↗
